My primary research interests focus on the use of
variable stars to determine fundamental physical
characteristics of stars such as distances, ages, chemical
history, masses, and radii. I have special interests in
eclipsing binary stars and Cepheid variables. I am also
interested in the semi-regular and long-period variables,
the optical surveillance of active galaxies, and the optical
detection of the light associated with gamma ray bursts. I
am particularly interested in the discovery and
classification of new variable stars both in our galaxy and
in external galaxies.

Yet, I am also interested in minor-bodies in our solar
system. I am particularly interested in confirming orbits
for NEOs, and for determining absolute magnitudes and light
curves for these objects.

My research specialty is optical and infrared photometry
of stars using area detectors such as CCDs. The Observatory
at Sonoma State is ideally suited for conducting this type
of research, and opportunities always exist for students to
participate in various on-going research programs. Our
course Advanced Observational Astronomy (A482) provides a
hands-on introduction to many of the techniques used in
contemporary observational astronomy.

I teach courses in astronomy, physics, and in software
construction (programming) and I am particularly interested
in using computer simulations to enhance instruction and
learning.